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Tracking Grey Giants at Ezulwini Game Lodges

Colossal grey giants flay their trunks in time with the gentle breeze that sweeps through the Balule. Crunching can be heard from their eager debarking of trees and uprooting of arid vegetation, but we barely hear them trundle through the ‘veld because of the micro-morphology design of their cushioned feet. The splashing of elephants is a noisy affair, but one that we love. Soaking up litres of water and spraying their bodies with fresh, natural water is part of their daily routine. Elephants also enjoy indulging a massive swimming session – it is here where young bulls will play-fight to establish dominance and other members of the herd will smother their delicate hide with mud packs to protect their bodies from the harsh rays of the sun.

That crunching sound that punctuates the tranquil, almost silent surrounds; the familiar pops of powerful jets of water hitting bodies of water, and joyous trumpeting are all sounds synonymous with elephants going about their daily business in the Balule.

Rangers from Ezulwini love to track elephants and always deliver memorable sightings for guests. Ezulwini is in the enviable position of having a lodge that is frequented by elephants, so if you don’t spot them while out on morning or evening game drive you’re bound to see them in the confines of the lodge property.

Billy’s Lodge has a skywalk that snakes its way across the bushveld and towards a small waterhole. Elephants often lumber over obstacles and trundle under the skywalk, giving guests a bird’s eye view of the herds. At River Lodge there is a small elevated wooden walkway that also gives rise to some spectacular views. River Lodge is on the banks of the Olifants River, which is also a major drawcard for our giants. There have been resident majestic bulls that frequent the camp – elephants have an exceptional memory and take comfort in an established routine.

For those that love elephants, Ezulwini Game Lodges is the place to visit. If you’re curious to find out more the emotive of the big five species, here are three interesting facts about elephants :

A young calf is raised in a matriarchal herd where all of the females aid the calf in its development. The related females and sub-adults will help the calf to navigate obstacles, and the young will always have the protection of the herd. Young bulls will lead a bachelor lifestyle when they reach the age of 13 – 14 – up until then they spend their formative years within their natal herd.
Elephants have a dominant tusk and are either “left tusked” or “right tusked”. Generally the tusk that is the most worn down and deeply etched with grooves is the dominant one.
Elephants are purveyors of pristine water and have been known to travel miles in search of the perfect water source. If access to water is scarce, elephants will dig small pits to access underground water. This is turn creates small pools of water for other wildlife.

These images below are just of the sightings we’ve enjoyed with the elephants of the Balule.

Week in Pics : The Contrasting Drama of the Natural World

The bushveld is a dramatic place, where a brutal life unfolds before our eyes and the blows of nature at its worst are softened by heartwarming moments of nature at its best. We have leopards killing barn owl chicks while at the same time we experience the emergence of wild dog pups into the wild. The bushveld constantly delivers such a contrast in emotional responses from us humans. And its not only the drama of life that unfolds, but also the scenery. We have bolts of lightning and thunderclouds eerily hovering over the landscape, while at the same time we have warm golden sunsets bathing the Kruger. This week in pics, we celebrate the contrasting drama of the natural world!

Umkumbe Safari Lodge

Zanelle Myburgh (a new addition to the Umkumbe family of rangers) sent through a wealth of information about the recent happenings at Umkumbe Safari Lodge. Mxabene, that leopard legend we talk about ad nauseam, was seen on two separate occasions. He was relaxing on a termite mound which provided the perfect vantage point to survey the landscape below. The second sighting of Max included a sighting of a hyena clan. They chased Max away from an area that he was exploring, which was a clear indication that the hyena had cubs in the vicinity. A leopard in close proximity to a hyena den – that just spells disaster!

That’s not the only leopard sighting enjoyed by guests during the course of the week. Ranger Nadia said that Little Bush’s female cub was spotted enjoying the remnants of a recent impala kill, but that wasn’t the only meal devoured by this eager youngster. She decided to forcefully remove a barn owl chick from its nest – leopards are the ultimate opportunists. From birds to antelope and more, it’s all fair game for our leopard species. And then there was also a sighting of White Dam – just to add into the mix.

Two other species of cat were also spotted while out on drive. A lone male cheetah was relaxing in the arid grasses and provided a perfect visual for guests. And then the 3 Tsalala male lions were observed sauntering through the property.

All in all, not a bad week of sightings for Umkumbe. Needless to say, there were plenty of “smaller” sightings in between the predator observations.

Ivory Wilderness Riversong Camp

Ivory Wilderness have enjoyed plenty of wild dog sightings over the past few weeks. This past week the highlight was the emergence of the wild dog pups from their den site. The pups are now old enough to begin a nomadic lifestyle together with their pack. Elephants are filtering down to the pristine waters of the Klaserie River and providing their onlookers with much delight. An opportunistic leopard was spotted trying to hijack a recent kill made by the wild dogs. These sightings were spotted from the comfort of the lodge’s balcony.

Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp

The two sister camps in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve certainly haven’t been short of lion sightings. The Mbiri males, the lone Sumatra male and the Ross Pride Breakaway lionesses girls have all been enjoying their own company. None of the coalitions and sub-groups have been spotted together, which makes a change from the week before. The highlight of the week was the thrilling sighting of the Dundee Pride of lions that were feasting on a recent kill. This pride is a mega-pride from the east block of the Klaserie and comprises mainly lionesses and sub-adults.

The elephants continue to frequent the splash pool at both camps and life with the small species continues to enthral newcomers to the bushveld.

Ezulwini Game Lodges

Life continues as usual in the Balule Nature Reserve, with a continuous influx of big game sightings such as elephants and buffalo. The ‘veld is quite arid at the moment which means the elephants are filtering down to the waterholes and river.

Week in Pics : A Mix of Species

Welcome to the Week in Pictures, our time to showcase the exquisite images taken during the week. This week, we’ve seen an increase in wildlife visiting camps in an effort to seek out water sources. Lion dynamics are shifting and they’re not the only members of the big five we’re seeing at the moment. Bolshy buffalo, sleek leopards and emotive pachyderms casually stroll through the reserves in search of water and food sources. And there we sit in our game viewers, watching the world unfold and carefully observe our mild mannered, yet tough species forging their way in their natural environment.

Our “sister” Klaserie camps, Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp, have enjoyed an increase in lion sightings recently. The Mbiri males returned to their hallowed ground, and this week the Hercules Pride appeared to be elusive. The highlight of the week was the sighting of an unknown male leopard (quite a hefty bruser) quietly enjoying his duiker meal in the safety of a tree. There was a leopardess in close encounters and the two eventually sauntered off into the thickets while our photographer listened to a series of grunts, which we speculate was the sound of them mating. In conjunction with our outstanding leopard sightings, we’ve had the elephant herds frequenting the splash pool at both camps. An absolute highlight for guests!

Ivory Wilderness Riversong Camp – another one of our camps in the Klaserie, has had an abundance of wild dog sightings and the elephants are filtering down to the river on a regular basis. Phenomenal sightings from both the camp and while out on game drive. Our Botswana camps, Tuskers Bush Camp and Xobega Island Camp continue to tick over with a wealth of sightings.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge have, yet again, inundated us with reports of big cat sightings. The leopard viewing on their traverse continues to deliver unusual and frequent encounters with our mottled cats. Little Bush’s female cub conducted a well-executed kill of an impala and it seems she has practicing her skills to perfect the art of taking of down quarry. A couple days after her impala meal, she heartbreakingly removed a barn owl chick from its nest. In terms of lions, the Tsalala males have made another appearance. White Dam and Mxabene, our commonly spotted leopards, were also seen. Other sightings included a cheetah just relaxing, elephant calves feeding and inquisitive hyena cub.

Ezulwini Game Lodges have had their fair share of big cat sightings, and the lion pride dynamics are shifting at a rapid rate. The Machaton males have made their mark, much to the disappointment of the Mohlabetsi coalition that has dwindled in numbers to 5. The Mohlabetsi males and even the Kudyela Pride flee upon the arrival of the heavyweight Machatons! With the heavy presence of lions, there are always scavengers hiding in the wings, as a result the sightings of hyena have been prolific.

National Women’s Day in South Africa : Meet Melita the Chef from nThambo

Today, August 9th, is National Women’s Day in South Africa and is declared a public holiday. Today is the day we commemorate the 1956 march held by women to petition against an ancient apartheid law that required all persons of colour to carry a ‘pass’. This pass was cruelly and unfairly given to non-whites to restrict their freedom of movement and was forced upon certain sectors of society under the “Urban Areas Act”. Today, we celebrate the strong women of the world – those who stand up for their rights, have courage in their convictions, speak out against abuse, live their truth, share their maternal instincts, love their partners and family unconditionally, support communities, forge ahead with careers and provide pillars of matriarchal strength to younger generations. This is a day to honour of your place in the world.

Today we spend time with one of our leading women at nThambo Tree Camp – our head chef Melita. Let’s find out and what it means to be a strong, successful career woman that is also a matriarch of her family.

What is your role at nThambo Tree Camp and how long have you worked at the camp?

I am head chef and manage the staff in the kitchen (2 other ladies). Each day, I ensure that all the food is fully stocked and food preparation is done early in the morning. I then prepare and head up the meals. Sometimes I come up with new menu ideas. I have worked here since October 2014.

What do you enjoy about your job?

Cooking has been a passion since I was a young girl cooking for family at home. I love cooking a roast and a traditional braai. The food we cook here is very different to our traditional food at home; and its been a great challenge to learn new recipes.

What does it mean to be a successful, strong woman?

It means to have the power to be the best and keep growing. I want to empower my daughter. I am a single parent and would like to bring up my daughter as though she has both parents. At work I try make everything perfect in the kitchen each day and strive to keep the guests happy. We work well as a team, which makes this successful.

How often do you work?

I work similar shifts to game rangers and other people at camp. I work for 3 weeks then I take 1 week off.

Where do you stay and where are your “roots”?

I live at nThambo Tree Camp but home is in a place called Hluvukani, which is 2 – 3 hours from camp.

What languages do you speak?

Shangaan is my first language and English is my second.

How many children do you have?

I have 1 daughter aged 15, and I take care of 5 immediate family members at home. I see them when I am during my leave period. I don’t have a husband so it’s up to me to take care of everyone.

Do you help your community and support others that need your help?

I am putting away money and saving to put my daughter through tertiary education. Any food I buy or am given, I share with my immediate community. Sometimes I use my own money to buy food for others.

To all the women out there – the Sun Destinations team wishes you a happy National Women’s Day 2017!

Relief Camp Manager Photographs Elephant at Pool in Camp

We’re in the full swing of winter in the bushveld, which means our lush velvet vegetation has now become arid and crunchy. During the winter, water sources dwindle which means wildlife congregates at waterholes and tend seek out any available water sources. Elephants love water and will only soak up water from pristine sources, hence their attraction to lodge swimming pools. At Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, the splash pools seem to be a hit with our grey giants. Both the camps are open, which means wildlife is free to roam throughout. Rangers ensure the safety of guests at all times, and they’re warned against approaching wildlife. Photos taken are always under the guidance of a ranger standing guard. Respect of wildlife and its space in the natural world is first and foremost with our highly qualified guides!

Liryn de Jager, the relief manager for the two Klaserie camps, spent time observing the pachyderms at the Africa on Foot splash pool together with guests. Liryn has a deep connection to the bushveld and has been associated with Africa on Foot for over 7 years. She keeps coming back for more, and much like the elephants she has returned to her old stomping ground.

“He came knocking, unhurriedly, and then entered the confines of Africa on Foot where he was watched closely by staff and the newly arrived guests to this piece of bushveld paradise.This majestic elephant bull is a regular visitor to camp and isn’t perturbed at all by man-made obstacles or spectators. He has a certain routine that seems comforting and reassuring to people like relief manager Liryn”

Here is Liryn’s account of an elephant in camp at Africa on Foot :

“Despite their size and sometimes volatile outbursts, I don’t have to wonder why these animals are also described as gentle giants. Especially this one – he is so unassuming and moves about nonchalantly. First he stops at the swimming pool, tests the water with the tip of his trunk, measures out a few scoops and then lets the refreshment dribble into his mouth. After a few repetitions, he gets rid of an irritating scratch in his eye and then swings his trunk over one tusk or just carefully places it at the edge of the pool and gets some shut-eye.

Forty winks later and he starts lumbering around, nibbling on the last bit of greenery on the trees around the pool. He calculatingly steps over the rope around the lawn, then decides some landscaping is in order and promptly removes this hindrance.

The lantern at the entrance to the Hardekool chalet is inspected with curiosity but found to be of not much interest in the end. Instead a slow walk is taken around to the other side where the rope near the kitchen is also done away with without too much trouble.

And then he decides enough is enough and saunters away through the shrubbery. Tomorrow is another day.”

UPDATE : Machaton Male Lions STILL Causing Havoc in the Balule

The 3 Machaton male lions have entered into Mohlabetsi turf with an arsenal of attitude and brazen bravado. Looks wise, they’re a powerhouse of all the lion stereotypes – heavyset, cascading manes and a strut that oozes confidence. The Mohlabetsi male lions were initially 8 lions strong and appeared to dominate the Balule area around Ezulwini. Recently, they dwindled to 6 and they’re regularly spotted while out on game drive with Ezulwini Game Lodges. The Machaton males entered Mohlabetsi turf and terrorised the large Mohlabetsi male; and with that the dynamics of the area shifted almost immediately. The male walked away relatively unscathed, but did have a number of deep scratches. Having put the fear of God in the coalition of 6, they now flee when confronted. This dramatic event unfolded about 2 weeks ago.

Circa 1 week ago, our ranger and photographer Kevin MacLaughlin was on assignment in the Balule and sent us a detailed version of lion events that unfolded during the course of the week. He spotted the Machatons relaxing on the side of the road. Two of them were gaining their much needed sleep in order to conserve energy for their nocturnal patrols; while the third male was mating with a female. Clearly sowing his wild oats to sire cubs in order to continue the bloodline.

The Machatons have not only wreaked havoc with the Mohlabetsi boys. It appears that even the Kudyela Pride (they are a split-off from the Olifants West mega pride) are exiting swiftly when they get wind of the Machaton mayhem. Kevin says they saw the pride of females and sub-adults on the move while he was staying at River Lodge.

Despite the Kudyelas keeping a low profile when the Machatons approach, a few of the females were spotted mating with the Machatons! One of the Machatons tried to mate again with the same female that he had success with previously, but now she refused his advances and he certainly wasn’t taking no for answer!

That same morning a lone lioness was spotted close to the perimeter of River Lodge, just strolling down the road. Ahead of her the road was littered with lion tracks, which indicates she may well have been lagging behind a pride. Unfortunately, she moved off into the thickets and rangers lost visual.

These incredible lion sightings and dramatic events took place during the course of last week while out on drive with Ezulwini Game Lodges. Today, we have just herd news from a neighbouring lodge that a body of a badly decomposed male lion was discovered. Speculation is that it’s “Blondie” from the Mohlabetsi male, but this is yet to be confirmed. The lodge reported that the remaining 5 Mohlabetsi males are in good health, but are still on the run from the Machaton boys. It’s always heartbreaking when a lion passes away, and this can quickly create a shift in behaviour from prides within the area.

Week in Pics : Lions are Causing an Uproar!

It’s that time of the week again, when we showcase the eccentric and unpredictable way of the wild. Our photographers and rangers head out into the bushveld with little expectation, but filled with hope. The expanse of land in our reserves means that wildlife roams free, and it’s up to us to track and observe their movements. Sometimes we’re lucky, and other times luck fails us. Don’t get us wrong, we always have sightings of wildlife but it’s our predators that are elusive. Chances are that you’ll spot birds such as lilac-breasted rollers and southern yellow-billed hornbills; and plenty of plains game. This week there seems to be a central theme running throughout. Lion dynamics are shifting and seem quite unstable at the moment. Old-timers, newcomers, brazen boys and ageing lionesses. It’s all a mixed bag at the moment. It’s safe to say that our lions are causing an uproar!

This week in pics we’re going to celebrate the blended family dynamics of our lions, and showcase the exceptional images of our other sightings.

Here’s a brief update from camps :

Ezulwini Game Lodges are enjoying plenty of lion sightings at the moment, with the focus being on the sub-adult male lions that have entered Mohlabetsi territory. The three young males we believe are the Machaton males, and they certainly have swag and power. There are seven Mohlabetsi males, and they flee when they hear the Machaton boys approaching.

The Klaserie camps, Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp, have noticed that the Ross Pride Breakaway lionesses have been in the company of the Sumtra male lion. While this has been happening, the Hercules sub-adults have also been spotted together with two lionesses. Coupled with that, there appeared to be a coalition of two other lionesses on the outskirts of where the Hercules males were spotted.

Another key sighting was that of the lions of Ivory Wilderness Riversong Camp. This time it wasn’t Duma with the spectacular mane, but rather the Dundee Pride sub-adult male. Umkumbe in the Sabi Sand have enjoyed regular sightings of the Tsalala young males.

In between the lion sightings, there has been wild dog activity, leopards on the prowl and plenty of plains game just enjoying an abundant life in the thickets.

Tuskers Bush Camp : African Wild Dog Pup Sighting!

Warwick Hendry, an avid writer and photographer is currently based at our camps in Botswana. When he sent through his recent update, we were delighted and somewhat green with envy. This was the sighting of a lifetime!

Here is his blog :

During a recent transfer from Tuskers Bush Camp to Xobega Island, a group of guests and I were treated to the African Wild Dog sighting of a lifetime.

The day started out normally enough: en route to Moremi Game Reserve, we had the usual elephant encounters, along with zebra, giraffe and other plains game. The drive was pleasant as always, but relatively uneventful in the grand scheme of things.

Then we had a chance encounter with another Wildside Africa vehicle, making the return trip from Moremi. As is customary, the two guides paused for a bit of friendly banter and to exchange information on the morning’s sightings.

Needless to say, our group received far better information than we gave. As we drove off, our guide informed me that we’d been given a golden tip-off. There was an active dog den ahead, not far off our planned route to the Island.

We made our way through the game reserve and followed the directions easily enough. Just as the day was beginning to warm up around mid morning, we rounded a bend, pulled into a copse of rain trees, and there they all were.

Scattered about in all the available patches of shade around an old termite mound were the better part of a large pack of African wild dogs. They sprawled lazily, entirely unconcerned the presence of our vehicle parked a respectful distance away.

With fewer than 6500 dogs remaining in the wild, this encounter was special enough in itself that excitement levels in the vehicle rose dramatically. Shutters clicked away as we sat and watched and waited – hoping that despite the heat and the indolence of the supine dogs, we might yet catch a glimpse of the pups we knew were hidden within the safety of the den.

And then there was movement! A dog suddenly emerged from the surrounding bush at a trot, or perhaps more of a waddle. Its belly was distended with what we could only assume was the remains of a very recent meal.

After giving us a few wary glances, the dog made straight for the den, where it was greeted by a chorus of high-pitched yipping and mewling. For the moment we had to content ourselves with hearing the pups as they were fed on freshly regurgitated chunks of meat underground.

At length the returned hunter emerged, followed, to our delight, by first one, then two, then an absolute flood of pups. By the time they’d all clambered out into the light, we counted sixteen of them, roughly six weeks old.

What we witnessed over the next few minutes will remain with me as long as I live. The pups were greeted in turn by the chief den guard of the morning. He seemed to check on each of them quite carefully as they passed.

As we looked on, the other members of the hunting party returned one by one. As they came up they were swarmed by the pups, clamouring for food. One by one they offered up the contents of their stomachs to the hungry, yipping little mouths and the meals were quickly devoured.

Wild dog are unique in that their digestive systems do not kick into gear until they stop moving. This means that a dog is able to return to the den with a stomach full of food, which can be shared with young or injured members of the pack – as long as it doesn’t stop for a rest along the way.

It is one thing to know about this behavior and quite another to witness it. As we looked on enthralled, the pups ate and played and yipped and romped around the den area under the watchful eyes of their mother and the other members of their large pack.

At a certain point the den guard seemed to decide that the proceedings were becoming unnecessarily, and possibly dangerously, loud. He stood, moved a little closer to the unruly youngsters, and emitted a single sharp bark.

The pups quieted themselves at once and ran for the protection of their mother, where they were received with reassuring licks and sniffings. Just seeing them was special enough, but I found this interaction extraordinary for the fact that it gave us a glimpse into the complex social organisation of these amazing animals.

As they were shepherded back to the den and we pulled out to continue our drive to the island, we knew we’d witnessed something incredible, something not many people are ever lucky enough to see. But that’s the way it is out here – you just never know what you might find around the next corner.

Breakfast at the Bush Bar : Our Version of a Danish Hygge

The natural soft hazy light of a typical Kruger morning gently complements the blinding turquoise of the sky. While the sun slowly emerges from the horizon, the diurnal creatures begin to rustle and our team works hard at creating the perfect setting for a breakfast at the Bush Bar. Nothing brings people together like classic, simple cuisine served in an outdoor setting. It’s cosy, comfortable, rustic and the ideal atmosphere for forming tight friendships. The Danish have a word for this, and it’s called “Hygge”. The Danes are rated as one of the happiest nations in the world and we firmly believe it’s because of the Hygge concept. Our breakfast at the Bush Bar, Our bush braais, sundowner stops at the bush bar, breakfasts in the ‘veld and campfires in the boma – #TheSafariLifestyle epitomises Hygge!

According to Wikipedia (often a questionable source, but in this case quite accurate), Hygge (pronounced Hoogah) is a Norwegian word which can be described as a “quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being”. Although the word is Nordic in origin, it has become a Danish concept that helps the Danes cope with long, dark winters. Hygge symbolises togetherness with a spontaneous social flow.

The team at Africa on Foot decided to surprise guests with a quaint bush breakfast. Prior to their arrival, platters of cold meats and snacks were set up in the bar area. A selection of teas, coffees, fruits and baked goods were all there for the taking.

After plenty of laughter and carefully selecting their meal of choice, some of the guests wandered over to the boma area to sit and chat. Other guests pulled up a chair at the bar and chatted to rangers about their recent sightings. If you’re staying at Africa on Foot for a a few nights, expect a few special moments in the bushveld!

As South Africans, Hygge comes naturally to our nation and thus the concept completely resonates with us, and in fact we have something similar we refer to as “the spirit of ubuntu”. Ubuntu is about community, virtue, humility and values. A coming together of cultures. There are plenty of social moments on safari – Hygge, Ubuntu, togetherness – a recipe for a happier life!

Week in Pics : Birds and Beasts

As fast as tumbleweed in the desert, the weeks seem to be rolling by. Soon we will be caught up the flurry of the festive season, which is why we take time to pause and reflect on Fridays. Friday is the day when we celebrate the sightings of the week and showcase our top images from each camp. This week, we’re taken aback at the wealth of big cat sightings at each camp. Powerful tawny lions and rosette patterned leopards provided us with unusual sightings, proving that predator behaviour can never be predicted. And in amongst the chaos, our friendly birds provided the calm.

Africa on Foot and nThambo Tree Camp

Lion pride dynamics are shifting in the Klaserie! The lion pride dynamics in the Klaserie are complex, intricate and fascinating. Just when we think there’s a common thread weaving its way through our sightings, we’re thrown a curveball. Daily we’re confirming lion IDs and piecing together the mysterious lion puzzle. Trying to predict the plot of the Klaserie lions is like watching an intellectual arthouse movie that you never wanted to see in the first place. The only difference is that we’re actually fascinated and interested in the dynamics!

Here is the summary : 1. The Sumatra male has been seen a few times with the Ross Pride Breakaway lionesses. 2. Two lionesses have been seen with the Mbiri males. 3. AND NOW …Two sub-adult Hercules male lions have been seen with two lionesses and in close proximity, we spotted another two lionesses patrolling their turf.

Umkumbe Safari Lodge

Umkumbe has also experienced a shift in big cat dynamics, especially when it came to dominant male Mxabene and White Dam’s sub-adult male cub. Guest Pedro Torres Taborda sent through a video of the unique series of events that took place on our traverse a couple of days ago. Mxabene the dominant male leopard in our area very boldly stole a kill from White Dam’s male cub. The growing cub became quite submissive when confronted by this Sabi Sand legend, but still remained in the area in the hopes of retrieving its kill. In other big cat news, the Tsalala young male lions were also spotted. Not a bad week for big cats in Sabi Sand !

Ezulwini Game Lodges

Apart from the apparent wealth of elephant sightings this week, a highlight has been the shift in lion pride dynamics within our traverse. The 7 Mohlabetsi male lions are a dominant and powerful force that we assumed could not be taken down. Enter the Machaton male lions! The Machaton’s were 4 members strong, but the Ezulwini team only spotted 3 of them. And what were they doing? Driving the Mohlabetsi males out! When the Mohlabetsi see the Machaton, they tend to flee. Interesting times ahead for the lion prides of the Balule Nature Reserve.

Ivory Wilderness Riversong Camp

This secluded and intimate luxury lodge continues to impress us with their big five sightings. From bovids to leopards and minute kingfishers; Warren Howson has a knack of seeking out astonishing moments in the bushveld. The two most memorable moments at camp included the sighting of a majestic leopardess called Naima, who has just birthed two cubs. The baboons have been harassing her with nightly calls. Another highlight was during our bush trails walk, a breeding herd of elephants was spotted trundling through the vegetation. There is nothing better than observing plains game and herds of giants while on foot.

Tuskers Bush Camp and Xobega Island Camp

Two social media influencers, Ben and Nicole, have just enjoyed a self-drive adventure through Botswana. They stayed at both of our camps and were blown away by the abundance of elephant sightings in front of camp at Tuskers. Their water safari to Xobega proved to be equally as enthralling, with sightings of hippo and other water-dwelling beasts. However, the highlight of the week has to be the discovery of the African wild dog’s den. The pups appeared to be old enough to emerge from their burrow, but the adults were still co-operatively guarding and protecting their young. Warwick Hendry was lucky enough to see the entire pack and will update us shortly with the ins and outs of the sighting.